Trafalgar

<b>A vivid and visceral portrayal of the most famous naval battle in history, focusing on the human cost of war, by a brilliant military historian</b><p><b>'A striking success' <i>The Times</i></b></p><b><p>'Fresh, original and brilliantly vivid'<i> Telegraph</i></p><p>'The best all-round book on the subject yet'<i> Spectator</i></p></b><p></p><p>At about 1.15 in the afternoon of 21 October 1805, Vice Admiral Horatio Nelson was struck by a 15-millimetre French musket round fired from of the <i>Redoutable</i>, a distance of some 70 feet to HMS <i>Victory</i>’s quarter deck. It fractured his left shoulder, pierced his lung and emerged to sever the spine.</p><p>In this fresh and vibrant retelling of the battle of Trafalgar, Paul O’Keeffe traces the course of events both prior and subsequent to that fatal shot: from 6.30 in the morning, as the British ships began their approach towards the enemy fleet, until the cessation of firing that followed the apocalyptic destruction of the French 74-gun <i>Achille</i> at 5.45 in the afternoon.</p><p>We also learn about the battle’s dramatic aftermath: how a violent storm destroyed the surviving French and Spanish ships; how news of victory travelled and was celebrated in London; how Nelson’s body was brought home and given a spectacular funeral.</p><p>Paying meticulous attention to little explored details, O’Keeffe gives us a front-row view of events. Gripping and immersive, this is a unique account of Trafalgar for a new generation of readers.</p><p><b>‘A gripping read, full of fascinating insights … deeply moving … Brilliant’ Adam Zamoyski</b></p><p><b>‘If you think you know it all about the battle of Trafalgar, think again. Paul O’Keeffe’s new book is full of fascinating information … His book is a must’ Nicholas Best</b></p>